JEWELLERY and designer handbags were stolen during a Prenton burglary.

Merseyside Police has today released photographs of items stolen during the raid on March 3.

Offenders are believed to have been forced their way into the property at some time between 8.30pm and 11pm.

Once inside, they searched the rooms before escaping with a large quantity of jewellery, including a number of watches and diamond ring, as well as a Luis Vuitton handbag and wallet.

House-to-house enquiries were carried out and police say an investigation into the incident is continuing.

One line of enquiry is that the incident may be linked to a number of burglaries in Liverpool in February and March targeting the Chinese community.

Detective Inspector Rachel Wilson, from Wirral CID, said: “The jewellery which was taken is worth a significant amount of money.

“Most importantly though, it has huge sentimental value to the owners.

“They have had many of the items for at least 20 years and are, understandably, both devastated they’ve been taken and are desperate for their safe return.

“I can’t comprehend why some people think it’s acceptable to steal from others who’ve worked hard for what they’ve got and we are determined to bring the offenders to justice.”

She added: "I'd also ask people to take a good look at the pictures we have issued which show a diamond solitaire ring which was stolen and watches which are very similar to the ones taken.

"If you have seen any of these items, or you think you may have been offered them for sale, I'd urge you to contact us as soon as possible".

Anyone with information should call Wirral CID on 0151 777 2265 or Crimestoppers, anonymously, on 0800 555 111.

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Items stolen include:

- A Rado Gents watch with a gold bracelet and white mother of pearl face set with diamonds. A matching ladies version was also stolen

- A rose gold and grey Michael Kors gents watch with a leather strap and square face

- A Citizen solar powered gents watch with a brown leather strap

- A Citizen solar powered ladies watch with a pink leather strap - Model BM6470-04A

- A two carat ladies solitaire diamond ring on a platinum band.

- Men's jade stone ring

- Two ladies Louis Vuitton handbags

- Men's Louis Vuitton wallet

- Ladies designer sunglasses

- Silver Fuji digital camera with a grey front.